Think Like a Freak
Think Like a Freak: The Authors of Freakonomics Offer to Retrain Your Brain
Authors
Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
Published Date
2014
Page Count
304
Overview
“Think Like a Freak: The Authors of Freakonomics Offer to Retrain Your Brain” by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner invites readers to think unconventionally and solve problems creatively. Building on the ideas presented in their previous books, “Freakonomics” and “SuperFreakonomics,” Levitt and Dubner provide tools and techniques for approaching problems from unique angles. The book encourages readers to question conventional wisdom, use data effectively, and think more productively and innovatively.
- First put away your moral compass—because it’s hard to see a problem clearly if you’ve already decided what to do about it.| Learn to say “I don’t know”—for until you can admit what you don’t yet know it’s virtually impossible to learn what you need to.| Think like a child—because you’ll come up with better ideas and ask better questions.| Take a master class in incentives—because for better or worse incentives rule our world.| Learn to persuade people who don’t want to be persuaded—because being right is rarely enough to carry the day.| Learn to appreciate the upside of quitting—because you can’t solve tomorrow’s problem if you aren’t willing to abandon today’s dud.
- Levitt, Steven D. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 304 Pages - 07/07/2015 (Publication Date) - William Morrow Paperbacks (Publisher)
Key Themes
- Rethinking Problems: Techniques for approaching problems in unconventional ways.
- Data and Evidence-Based Thinking: Using data to inform decisions and challenge assumptions.
- Overcoming Biases: Identifying and overcoming biases that can impede problem-solving.
- Creativity in Decision-Making: Encouraging creativity and open-mindedness in analyzing complex issues.
Historical Context
The book reflects the contemporary landscape, where innovative thinking and data-driven approaches are increasingly valued in various fields.
Authors’ Background
Steven D. Levitt is an economist known for his unconventional approach to economics, and Stephen J. Dubner is a journalist. Together, they have a knack for making complex ideas accessible and entertaining.
Impact and Legacy
“Think Like a Freak” has been well-received for its engaging style and practical advice, encouraging readers to adopt a more analytical and creative approach to problem-solving.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths: The book is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it a fun and thought-provoking read. Weaknesses: Some readers may find the advice somewhat simplistic or seek deeper dives into the topics discussed.
Who Should Read This?
Ideal for anyone looking for new ways to approach problems, whether in business, personal life, or broader societal issues.
Similar Books
- “Outliers: The Story of Success” by Malcolm Gladwell: Explores the factors that contribute to high levels of success.
- “Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions” by Dan Ariely: Investigates the often illogical ways people behave and make decisions.
Final Thoughts
“Think Like a Freak” offers a refreshing perspective on problem-solving and decision-making, encouraging readers to look at the world differently and challenge their assumptions.
- First put away your moral compass—because it’s hard to see a problem clearly if you’ve already decided what to do about it.| Learn to say “I don’t know”—for until you can admit what you don’t yet know it’s virtually impossible to learn what you need to.| Think like a child—because you’ll come up with better ideas and ask better questions.| Take a master class in incentives—because for better or worse incentives rule our world.| Learn to persuade people who don’t want to be persuaded—because being right is rarely enough to carry the day.| Learn to appreciate the upside of quitting—because you can’t solve tomorrow’s problem if you aren’t willing to abandon today’s dud.
- Levitt, Steven D. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 304 Pages - 07/07/2015 (Publication Date) - William Morrow Paperbacks (Publisher)
